Governor Lusaka calls for regional cooperation on water resource management

Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka during the partnership for water security in the lake region economic block conference in Kisumu on Nov 6, 2024. [Juliet Omelo, Standard]

The Lake Region Economic Bloc (LREB) has inaugurated its first partnerships for the Water Security Conference, marking a significant step toward sustainable water management for Kenya's western counties.

The bloc's Vice Chairperson Kenneth Lusaka underscored the urgency of creating a water-secure environment to benefit the bloc's 17 million residents.

Lusaka, who is also the Governor for Bungoma County highlighted the disparities in water access, pointing out that only 53 per cent of the population currently benefits from water services, with rural areas facing the greatest challenges.

He called for strengthened cooperation among the 14 counties within the bloc to better manage and share water resources, noting that a unified approach is essential to meet these demands.

Lusaka advocated for innovative financing strategies to address the region's water infrastructure needs, suggesting mechanisms such as county bonds and public-private partnerships to attract investment.

He further acknowledged the support from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and encouraged stakeholders to leverage existing research networks to craft sustainable solutions for the water crisis.

"Water security is not only about access; it's a pillar of environmental stewardship and regional prosperity," Lusaka emphasized.

Running through November 7, the conference brings together governors, water sector partners, and local leaders who will collaborate on strategies for water conservation, improved service delivery, and sustainable water resource management within the LREB.